Small Chinese Elm Coffee Table with carved Apron

The design of this table draws heavily on traditional Chinese furniture, particularly forms associated with the Qing period, which ran from 1644 to 1912. Details such as the framed panelled top, square legs and pierced geometric apron continued to influence Chinese furniture long after the end of imperial rule, however, so the style alone isn't enough to identify a table as Qing dynasty.

Without evidence that places this particular piece before 1912, we wouldn't describe it as a Qing dynasty antique. From what we can see, we believe a mid-20th-century date is more likely, with the table retaining the construction and decorative language of much earlier Chinese furniture.

We’ve stripped away its previous darker finish to expose the natural elm and all the variation in the grain, before protecting it with a simple clear wax. The paler finish also makes the pierced apron and small floral carvings much easier to appreciate.

Good solid used condition with knocks, marks, scratches, old repairs, wear to the base of the legs and irregularities from previous use. The darker finish has been stripped away and the exposed elm sealed with clear wax. We have deliberately retained the existing marks and variations rather than trying to make the surface look new.

Stripping this one back completely changed it. What previously felt quite dark and heavy now has a much softer look, and all those little details in the apron suddenly stand out. We particularly like the mix of the broad, simple panelled top with the much more intricate carving underneath.